If you've been heating your pool with gas or electric resistance for years, switching to a pool heat pump might seem like a big leap. But pool owners across the country are doing it—for good reason.
Heat pumps don't create heat the way gas burners or electric coils do. Instead, they draw warmth from the surrounding air and transfer it into your pool water using an efficient cycle of refrigerant and compression. It's a proven method that's already used in home heating and HVAC systems.
So can it fully replace your existing setup? In most cases, yes—and with noticeable benefits.
Efficiency That Cuts Your Energy Bills
One of the biggest advantages of a heat pump is efficiency. For every unit of electricity it uses, a high-quality heat pump like the Arctic Inverter Pool Heat Pump from Northen Lights Solar Solution can deliver up to 6.4 units of heat. That means lower operating costs month after month—up to 80% savings compared to electric resistance heating.
If you run your pool heater daily or year-round, those numbers add up fast.
Performance in Tough Conditions
Many pool owners worry about heat pump performance in colder climates. But cold-weather models like the Arctic Inverter are built for this. These pumps can operate in air temperatures as low as –20°C (–5°F). Smart features like hot-gas defrost and a reversing valve help them maintain reliable output, even when frost is in the forecast.
They also double as cooling units in warmer climates—something most gas heaters can't offer.
Spa-Worthy Water Temperatures
You might assume a heat pump can't match the high temperatures needed for a spa. In fact, Arctic heat pumps are capable of heating pool or spa water up to 40°C (104°F). Whether you're soaking in a hot tub or taking a polar-style plunge with the chill mode, the system adapts to your settings.
Long-Term Value With Less Maintenance
Gas heaters have burners and ignition systems that wear out. Electric resistance units can corrode. A heat pump has fewer moving parts and uses a titanium heat exchanger that resists damage from chlorine, bromine, and salt.
With fewer repairs and a longer service life, a heat pump often outlasts other types of heaters while costing less to run.
Should You Make the Switch?
If you value lower energy bills, quiet operation, and year-round comfort, pool heat pumps are worth considering. And if you live in a region with fluctuating weather, a cold-climate model like the Arctic Inverter gives you flexibility that most traditional systems can't match.